Parenting in the digital age brings a whole host of issues our parents never had to deal with. Each new device we buy for our children requires us to educate ourselves and research parental controls and the best ways to manage technology - all with the goal of protecting our children. Sometimes it's just plain overwhelming (especially as my daughter masters new technology much more quickly than I do)! Thankfully, there are new forms of technology available that actually help parents create and maintain regular internet safety rules for their kids. Best of all, they are simple to use - even for this technology challenged mom. One tool that I'm especially excited about? The Gryphon Internet Router.

Disclosure: I was compensated for my time sharing about this product. All opinions are my own.

Simple ways to manage online safety

Trying to manage all the devices and screens (especially if you have more than one or two children) can quickly become overwhelming for many parents. That's why I'm so impressed with this new device. With one router and an app on your phone, you can control the websites your kid's visit and even the times they are able to surf the 'net (no more kids sneaking devices at bedtime).

But, even with such a valuable resource, there are a few simple ways you can manage online safety in your home:

always check new devices for parental controls and set them accordingly

keep devices in open family spaces - no closed bedroom doors

create a family charging station - where all the devices are deposited at the end of the day

Most importantly, take the time to discuss the importance of internet safety with your children. Even with these simple tips, the Gryphon Internet Router is a great addition to taking online safety to the next level.

Gryphon Internet Router

The digital age brings a wealth of information and conveniences, but we cannot ignore the risks it poses for the family. Most children are exposed to the Internet at the age of 6, and 70% of children see inappropriate content by accident. The average family has 10 Internet-connected devices and counting, creating new security threats and vulnerabilities. However, the existing parental control tools are too complicated to use and expensive with annual subscriptions.

Gryphon is a powerful yet convenient approach to online safety. Gryphon combines a high-performance WiFi router and a simple-to-use smartphone app, making it easy for parents to manage the connected home from anywhere. All security features are built directly within the router itself, eliminating the need to install additional apps on your connected devices. Setting up the Gryphon router takes just three steps and a simple tap with the Gryphon app. Grant access to specific websites, restrict internet access during various times of the day (such as during sleep and homework), and monitor your connected home devices like thermostats or cameras to prevent hacking. This can be done on your smartphone from anywhere. The app even features a social collaboration tool, so you can work together with fellow homeschooling parents to create a safer Internet for everyone, by recommending and rating specific websites.

The people behind Gryphon have worked hard over the last year on the design and the software platform and they have launched a Kickstarter campaign today for the final production of Gryphon. You can go to http://www.gryphonconnect.com to find out more about the product and the campaign.